Chief EHS Strategist — Safety, Compliance & Risk

Kansas State University; Manhattan (KS); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Kansas State University seeks a Director of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the university's EHS programs. This role requires directing multiple safety disciplines, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and guiding risk mitigation across research, academics, and operations.

The position emphasizes governance, budget management, vendor coordination, and collaboration with Risk Management, HR, and Emergency

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree is required.
• Six years of relevant experience or more with additional relevant education may count toward experience per the hiring manager.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee institution-wide EHS strategies, programs, procedures, and systems to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Provide strategic leadership and governance for EHS structures and resources aligned with university priorities.
• Conduct data-driven risk and trend analyses to identify hazards and develop mitigation strategies.
• Guide regulatory compliance, risk reduction, and continuous program improvement across EHS domains.
• Oversee chemical, biological, radiological materials management and disposal; occupational safety and industrial hygiene; laboratory, radiation, and laser safety; site assessments; and compliance reporting.
• Lead the fire safety group and University Fire Marshal, and collaborate with Risk Management and HR on investigations and data analytics.
• Develop emergency response and continuity plans for EHS areas, including exercises and hazardous materials security planning.
• Direct EHS staff, foster a high-performing, service-oriented culture, and manage operating budgets and resources.

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Kansas State University seeks a Director of Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the university's EHS programs. This role requires directing multiple safety disciplines, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and guiding risk mitigation across research, academics, and operations.

The position emphasizes governance, budget management, vendor coordination, and collaboration with Risk Management, HR, and Emergency